E-7 Specially Designated Activities
🇰🇷 South Korea visas · Work
What it is
Korea's main work visa for skilled foreign professionals. Covers 87 occupation categories including IT, engineering, natural sciences, and management. Requires invitation from a Korean employer and proof of qualifications. Official sub-categories: E-7-1 특정활동 (specially designated activities); E-7-91 FTA독립 (FTA independent).
Key facts
- Category
- Work
- Duration
- 1 to 3 years (renewable)
- Processing time
- 3–6 weeks
- Maximum validity
- 3 years
- Path to permanent residence
- Indirect route
- Dependants
- Yes
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee (single entry, stay 91 days or more)
- USD 60
- Application fee (if issued as a 2-entry visa)
- USD 70
- Application fee (if issued as a multiple-entry visa)
- USD 90
Key requirements
- Employment contract from a Korean employer
- Employer must apply for Visa Issuance Confirmation Number (VICN)
- Degree or professional certificate relevant to the occupation category
- At least 1 year of experience (varies by occupation)
- Employer must meet foreign worker quota requirements
- Background check clearance
Working on this visa
A status of residence permitted to engage in employment (Enforcement Decree Art. 23(1)).
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 18 July 2026.